Abstract
Background Caring for a child with type 1 diabetes is a tremendous challenge for a family. The
aim of the study was to explore the experiences of transition to sensor-augmented
pump therapy (SAP) in families with 2 affected children and the internal and external
conditions which potentially impede or facilitate the adjustment process.
Methods 5 families (9 parents, 8 children and adolescents) who used the SAP technology for
6 months were interviewed to describe their experiences. The interviews were analysed
using thematic content analysis.
Results Qualitative analysis of the transcribed interviews revealed that the adaptation process
to SAP consisted of several phases and differed among families. There were benefits
as well as hassles of using SAP with regard to managing the diabetes, and psychosocial
issues: school and peer relations, as well as family relations. While parents clearly
regarded the improved metabolic control and hypoglycaemic safety as the most important
benefits of SAP, the hassles reported as most important covered a wide range, from
technical problems of the system to family conflicts. On the whole, families rated
the experience of using SAP as a positive one, with most recommending SAP to other
families as long as they were willing to come to terms with the technology and commit
to the work and time involved.
Conclusion Sensor-augmented pump therapy can be extremely beneficial and a resource for families
who care for more than one child with diabetes. During the adaptation process there
is a great need of education and frequent follow-up e. g., by telemedical support.
Key words
insulin infusion systems - blood glucose self-monitoring - telemedicine - qualitative
research
